The Intersection of History and Climate: Paleotempestology Courses and Careers

A specialised field commonly found in larger programs like ‘Geology’, ‘Climate Science’, or ‘Environmental Science’ is “Paleotempestology”, which is the study of previous tropical cyclone activity using geological and historical evidence. There are numerous colleges and other organisations in India that provide pertinent courses and activities.For people who are passionate about researching historical climatic events and expanding the knowledge of climate change and natural disasters, a career in Paleotempestology can be fulfilling and significant.

Who can be a Paleotempestologist?

• A student who has cleared 10+2 with a science stream with a specialisation in Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics.
• Undergraduates, particularly those with a B.Sc in Geology, Earth Sciences, and Environmental Science, are preferred. However, all B.Sc graduates are eligible, regardless of their percentage.
• Postgraduates with M.sc or M. tech holders specialisations in geology, earth sciences, and environmental science are also eligible.
• Students who fail to meet these prerequisites in the past may choose to write unique papers on the required subject. For instance, a student majoring in the arts could complete the primary requirement with papers on physics, geology, or environmental issues. This would also help the candidate build a solid foundation.
   

Entrance Exams:

• University-specific entrance exams or merit-based admission
• IIT-JAM, GATE, university-specific entrance exams
• GATE, CSIR-UGC NET, university-specific entrance exams, research proposal
   

Application Process: Apply to the chosen program with required documents :

• Academic transcripts, 
• Entrance exam scores,
• Letters of recommendation,
• Statement of purpose.
   

Top Universities and Institutions in India:

1. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)- Many IITs, such as IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, and IIT Kharagpur, offer programs in Earth Sciences, Environmental Science, and Climate Studies. 
2. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)
3. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
4. Anna University
5. National Institute of Oceanography (NIO)
    

Career opportunities:

Job opportunities for specialists in Paleotempestology in India are typically found in academic institutions, research organisations, government agencies, environmental consulting firms, and non-profit organisations. Several organisations in India offer job roles related to Paleotempestology and associated fields such as climate science, geology, and environmental science. Here are some specific companies and institutions where you might find relevant job opportunities:

Research Organisations and Institutions:

1. National Institute of Oceanography (NIO)
2. Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM)
3. Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
4. Indian Meteorological Department (IMD)
5. National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR)

Government Agencies:

1. Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)
2. National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)

Environmental Consulting Firms:

1. TERI (The Energy and Resources Institute)
2. ERM (Environmental Resources Management)
3. AECOM
4. E&Y (Ernst & Young) Climate Change and Sustainability Services

Non-Profit Organisations and NGOs:

1. WWF India (World Wide Fund for Nature)
2. Greenpeace India
3. Center for Science and Environment (CSE)

These organisations offer diverse roles ranging from research and analysis to policy advocacy and consulting. Checking their career pages and staying updated with job portals and professional networks can help you find specific job openings related to Paleotempestology and related fields.

Know your field Legends:

• Kam-biu Liu, the George W. Barineau III professor and chair of the Department of Oceanography & Coastal Sciences, has long been credited as the father of paleotempestology, or the study of ancient storms. Now his work in that field is being recognised by the American Association of Geographers’ Climate Specialty Group, with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
• Dr. M. Rajeevan, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India. Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad, Renowned for his work in paleoclimatology and stable isotope geochemistry, which helps in understanding past climate changes.
• Dr. Harsh Gupta, National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI), Hyderabad
• Dr. P.V. Joseph, Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT)
• Dr. K.J. Ramesh,Former Director General of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD)
   

Conclusion:

Although few people may be familiar with the field, it has the potential to be a very exciting one. Contributions to society and nature can be made in the field of Paleotempestology. Studies in this field are heavily influenced by the ecocentrism concept. It is always your option what career you pursue, and it can be amazing if you have the right coaching. Primarily one needs to give priority to dedication and passion. There is room for improvement provided the student thoroughly investigates and maximises the opportunities in this field, as the job markets for these positions are less resourced than typical.

Is Palaeoclimatology the right career path for you? Are you someone who loves the outdoors and is interested in learning more about climate science? Do you enjoy research and fieldwork? Ask these questions to yourself and if your answer is yes you are the next Paleotempestologist that the world needs!

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